Category: Technology

  • What is Digital Transformation? Explaining the definition and challenges

    What is Digital Transformation? Explaining the definition and challenges

     

    Digital Transformation

    Have you heard the term Digital Transformation but are unsure about its detailed meaning or why it’s gaining attention? In reality, many people find themselves in this situation.

    This article will explain the overview of Digital Transformation and the reasons it is attracting attention, including some practical examples.

     

    What is Digital Transformation?

    It signifies the profound changes and improvements in people’s lives brought about by the pervasive integration of technology into society.

    Originally a concept proposed in 2004 by Swedish university professor Erik Stolterman, in Japan, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) defines it as follows. Simply put, it means “companies incorporating digital technology into their businesses to drive change for people, and automating traditional analog operations to bring about transformation in work styles.”

    Therefore, Digital Transformation is a term used in a broad sense, ranging from its application in business to its wider impact on society.

     

    Why is Digital Transformation Gaining Attention?

    While Digital Transformation has often been a topic of discussion for some time, it can be said that its necessity has become widely recognized due to the progression of digitalization across various fields.

    Here, we will detail the main reasons why Digital Transformation  is currently in the spotlight.

    Impact of Technological Innovation

    The recent evolution of technology is also considered a factor influencing the focus on Digital Transformation.

    Particularly overseas, companies like the so-called GAFA (Google, Amazon, Facebook (now Meta), and Apple) have been central to bringing about societal changes, attracting global attention. It is said that for Japanese companies as well, survival will be difficult in the future without engaging in digitalization.

    Furthermore, supported by technological advancements, the widespread adoption of online environments, especially through smartphones, has been a significant factor.

    Therefore, to adapt to societal changes, it is crucial for companies to engage in Digital Transformation and drive digitalization forward.

    The 2025 Digital Cliff Problem

    The “2025 Digital Cliff” refers to a warning stated in the “Digital Transformation Report” by METI: “If Digital Transformation does not progress, there is a potential for an annual economic loss of up to 12 trillion yen from 2025 onwards.”

    While several issues such as security and talent shortages are raised as concerns, there is particular apprehension that outdated core systems, known as “legacy systems,” could cause companies to miss out on business opportunities.

    Consequently, there is a need to overhaul old systems and invest budgets in new IT and digital technologies.

    Influence of Remote Work

    Changes in work styles driven by recent shifts in lifestyle patterns are another reason Digital Transformation has garnered attention.

    Previously, commuting to the office was the norm, but the adoption of remote work and telecommuting was increasingly encouraged.

    Although remote work was not common in Japan, many companies likely recognized its efficiency and the importance of Digital Transformation upon implementation.

    As adapting digital tools according to the times is essential, a proactive approach to new ways of working is considered important.

     

    Challenges in Digital Transformation

    Although Digital Transformation is promoted, factors like talent shortages mean it may not be easily implementable in the future. Therefore, it is crucial to consider securing and developing human resources early on.

    Here, we discuss the challenges associated with Digital Transformation.

    Shortage of IT Human Resources

    A reason cited for the lack of increase in companies undertaking Digital Transformation is the shortage of personnel in the Digital Transformation and IT fields. The problem is not just a lack of engineers and other hands-on professionals but also a deficiency in management-level personnel who understand Digital Transformation.

    According to announcements by METI, there are concerns about a shortage of over 450,000 people in the IT field by 2030, which could be a critical issue for promoting Digital Transformation.

    Therefore, to prepare for this future shortage, it is important for companies to start focusing on securing IT talent and fostering their development as IT professionals now.

    Lack of Clear Management Goals

    When engaging in Digital Transformation, it is vital for management to have clear objectives and strategies. Without this clarity, employees cannot set a direction, leading to half-hearted efforts across the entire company.

    Thus, it is important first for management to correctly understand Digital Transformation and then share the purpose and vision for undertaking Digital Transformation with employees.

    Moreover, as Digital Transformation often involves entirely new initiatives, it is crucial to conduct regular reviews and make improvements. Actively incorporating employee feedback is also an effective approach to Digital Transformation implementation.

     

    Essential Human Resources for Digital Transformation

    The personnel required to realize Digital Transformation need not only IT knowledge and experience but also the ability to think and act from a business perspective. This is because promoting Digital Transformation relates to the company’s overall direction, requiring a forward-looking approach. Specifically, the following skills are needed:

    • Basic IT skills

    • Cutting-edge knowledge in digital fields such as AI and blockchain

    • Project management skills

    Digital Transformation is rarely undertaken by a single person; it is typically a team effort. Therefore, management skills to coordinate and lead the project are also crucial for achieving Digital Transformation.

    A Digital Transformation team is typically composed of roles such as:

    • Producer

    • Project Manager (PM)

    • Engineers/Programmers

    • UX Designer

    • Data Scientist/AI Engineer

    • Architect

    Since the required knowledge and skills differ by role, it is important to gather a balanced mix of talent when forming the team.

     

    Examples of Digital Transformation

    As Digital Transformation can be applied across industries, there are numerous examples both domestically and internationally. Here, we will detail some cases that have had a significant impact on society.

    Business Transformation Area: BMW i Visualiser

    The app “BMW i Visualiser,” which utilizes Augmented Reality (AR), is an example of Digital Transformation undertaken by the automotive company BMW.

    This app allows users to select a car with their preferred color and design and view it from any angle.

    A key feature is the ability to customize fine details like lights, offering an experience incredibly close to viewing the actual vehicle. This was a novel idea in the automotive industry, where visiting a dealership was the norm, and it has proven effective in attracting new customers.

    Digital Economy Area: JapanTaxi

    The taxi dispatch app “JapanTaxi” is a Digital Transformation example that significantly changed the taxi industry in Japan.

    Using this app eliminates the need to wait outside, allowing users to call a taxi to their desired location at their preferred time.

    An attractive feature is that since the pickup and drop-off points are set upon boarding, the fare can be calculated and payment processed even before arriving at the destination. It’s a service convenient for many people and represents a business model with a substantial impact on society.

     

    Conclusion

    In the modern era of evolving digital technology, promoting Digital Transformation is essential for every company. However, due to factors like the shortage of IT human resources, it is entirely possible that companies may find themselves wanting to promote Digital Transformation but unable to do so.

    Therefore, it is necessary to take measures for Digital Transformation early on, aiming for a state where your organisation is not left behind by the times.

     

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  • What is Natural Language Processing (NLP)? Explaining how it works, what it can do, and examples of its use

    What is Natural Language Processing (NLP)? Explaining how it works, what it can do, and examples of its use

    Do you know what Natural Language Processing (NLP) is? It is the technology that enables AI to analyze human language, understand conversations, and generate text, and it is being utilized in various business scenarios.

    In this article, we will comprehensively explain the overview, mechanisms, capabilities, and application examples of NLP. If you are considering implementing AI in your company, please read through to the end.

    Natural Language Processing

    What is Natural Language Processing (NLP)?

    Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a technology that enables AI to understand, analyze, and effectively utilize human language. By treating the words we use daily (natural language) as data, it makes these things possible.

    A major characteristic of NLP is its ability to understand not only the structure of words and grammar but also context and nuances. This allows NLP to be used in various scenarios, such as question-answering in search engines, multilingual translation in translation apps, and conversations with chatbots.

    In this way, NLP can be considered a crucial technology for enabling smooth communication between AI and humans.

     

    Types of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Their Capabilities

    Natural Language Processing (NLP) can be broadly divided into two categories: “Natural Language Understanding (NLU)” and “Natural Language Generation (NLG).” Let’s take a closer look at the differences between them.

    Natural Language Understanding (NLU)

    Natural Language Understanding (NLU) is the technology that allows AI to comprehend human language. Specifically, it analyzes the words, grammar, and context contained within sentences and conversations to interpret the underlying intent and meaning.

    Through the application of NLU, AI can consider the ambiguity and polysemy of language and perform accurate interpretations. In other words, NLU plays the role of the “receiver” of language, handling tasks like text classification, sentiment analysis, and intent recognition.

    Natural Language Generation (NLG)

    Natural Language Generation (NLG) is the technology that enables AI to produce natural-sounding sentences and conversations, much like a human would. It is used in various scenarios, such as the automatic creation of news articles or chatbots that generate appropriate responses to users.

    By using NLG, AI can construct grammatically correct and coherent natural sentences based on input data and information. Thus, NLG serves as the foundation for AI to act as a “sender” of language.

     

    Application Examples of Natural Language Processing (NLP)

    Recently, Natural Language Processing (NLP) has been utilized in a wide range of business scenarios. This chapter introduces five representative use cases of NLP.

    Conversational AI

    One of the most representative use cases of Natural Language Processing (NLP) is conversational AI. By applying NLP to AI chatbots or virtual assistants, they can respond to user questions and requests in natural language.

    Specifically, the system works by using Natural Language Understanding (NLU) to analyze the intent of the question and Natural Language Generation (NLG) to generate an accurate response. NLP is used in a wide range of situations, from handling customer support inquiries to processing voice commands through smart speakers.

    Machine Translation

    Machine translation, which performs translation between different languages, is also a significant application field of Natural Language Processing (NLP). For example, Google Translate, a representative translation tool, uses NLP to analyze text and provide translation results that consider grammar and context.

    Especially since the introduction of models based on the previously mentioned Transformer, it has become possible to perform natural and highly accurate translations. In this way, NLP forms the foundation supporting global communication across language barriers.

    Text Mining

    Text mining, which extracts valuable information from large volumes of document data, is widely used in various business and research fields. For example, it can analyze posts on social media to grasp consumer sentiments and trends, or extract essential information from legal documents or academic papers. This enables efficient acquisition of insights to support decision-making.

    Related article: What is Text Mining? A Simple Explanation of the Mechanism and Typical Analysis Methods!

    Text Summarization and Classification

    Text summarization and classification, such as summarizing news articles or long texts, and categorizing emails or reviews, are applications of Natural Language Processing (NLP) that aid in information organization. Specifically, AI extracts the important parts of a text to create a concise summary, or assigns appropriate tags based on the content. In our age of information overload, NLP is a vital technology supporting efficient information gathering.

    Text Generation

    Natural Language Processing (NLP) enables the efficient generation of high-quality text. Examples include generating captions based on images or creating creative texts like novels and poems. Furthermore, advanced models like the GPT series can produce natural-sounding text that seems human-written, leading to applications in entertainment and marketing.

     

    The Mechanism of Natural Language Processing (NLP)

    So far, we have introduced the overview and application examples of Natural Language Processing (NLP), but how does NLP actually work? In this chapter, we explain the mechanism of NLP.

    Machine-Readable Dictionary

    The foundation of Natural Language Processing (NLP) is the machine-readable dictionary, a database of word meanings and relationships. Machine-readable dictionaries store definitions, parts of speech, synonyms, antonyms, and more, serving as a guide for AI to understand language. By utilizing this, AI can interpret words based on their basic meanings and context.

    Corpus

    A corpus is a large dataset of actual language data. Examples of corpora include newspaper articles, blogs, and social media posts. AI learns how words and phrases are used by analyzing corpora, making corpora a critical element that significantly impacts the performance of Natural Language Processing (NLP).

    Morphological Analysis

    Morphological analysis is the process of breaking down sentences into their smallest meaningful units, such as words or phrases, and identifying the part of speech and role of each. For example, the sentence “The cat walks” would be broken down into “The (article),” “cat (noun),” and “walks (verb).” By performing morphological analysis, Natural Language Processing (NLP) clarifies the basic structure of a sentence, thereby improving the accuracy of subsequent processing.

    Parsing (Syntactic Analysis)

    Parsing, or syntactic analysis, is a technique for analyzing the relationships between words in a sentence to clarify its grammatical structure. For example, in the sentence “The cat chases the mouse,” “cat” is identified as the subject, “chases” as the predicate, and “mouse” as the object. Performing syntactic analysis allows AI to understand the overall meaning of a sentence more precisely.

    Context Analysis

    Context analysis is a technique for analyzing not just words and phrases, but also their meaning within the overall sentence or conversation. For example, if the word “bank” appears in a sentence, the context determines whether it refers to a financial institution or the side of a river. By considering context to interpret meaning, AI can achieve more natural conversations and text generation.

    Representative Models Used in Natural Language Processing (NLP)

    Even when we simply say “Natural Language Processing (NLP),” the models used are diverse. In this chapter, we pick and introduce five representative models used in NLP.

    word2vec

    word2vec is a technique for representing words as vectors (sets of numerical values), allowing the numerical capture of word meanings, similarities, and relationships. For example, it enables calculations like “king – man + woman = queen.” A characteristic of word2vec is its lightweight and fast nature, leading to its use in a wide range of applications, including text classification, sentiment analysis, and search engine optimization.

    doc2vec

    doc2vec is an extension of word2vec, with the major characteristic being its ability to vectorize entire sentences or documents, not just words. By using doc2vec, it becomes possible to quantify the features of a text, measure similarity between documents, and perform document classification. For instance, it is used for categorizing news articles or reviews, serving purposes that require understanding the overall meaning of a text.

    RNN

    RNN (Recurrent Neural Network) is a type of neural network (AI technology designed by mimicking the neural circuits of the human brain) that processes input data while considering its sequential nature. It maintains past data in an internal state and reflects it in subsequent processing, thereby learning the flow of context. For example, RNNs are a valid option for analyzing short sentences or performing simple time-series prediction.

    LSTM

    LSTM (Long Short-Term Memory) is a type of RNN specifically designed to capture long-range dependencies in time-series data or extended contexts. While the vanishing gradient problem is a major challenge for standard RNNs, using LSTM enables Natural Language Processing that considers long-term dependencies. It is suitable for tasks where understanding the meaning of long texts or temporal flow is crucial, such as chatbots and machine translation.

    Note: The vanishing gradient problem refers to the issue where, during the learning process of a neural network, the gradients (differential values) used to update weights by backpropagating errors become extremely small, causing learning to stall in deeper layers.

    Transformer

    The Transformer is a model that has become the mainstream in current Natural Language Processing (NLP). It efficiently understands context by utilizing a Self-Attention mechanism. The Self-Attention mechanism allows all words in an input sentence to evaluate the relationships and importance among each other.

    Because Transformers achieve high accuracy in tasks like translation, summarization, and text generation, they serve as the foundation for advanced models such as GPT and BERT. Unlike traditional RNNs and LSTMs, Transformers allow for parallel processing and offer high computational efficiency, demonstrating overwhelming performance in tasks involving large-scale data.

     

    Points to Note When Using Natural Language Processing (NLP)

    While Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a very convenient technology, there are several points to keep in mind when actually using it. This chapter introduces three precautions when utilizing NLP.

    Beware of Data Bias

    Typical Natural Language Processing (NLP) models learn based on their training data. Therefore, if the data used contains biases, there is a risk that the model will inherit those prejudices or make incorrect judgments.

    A concrete example could be a case where the model reflects biases related to specific genders or regions. To prevent this issue, it is crucial to select diverse data and regularly evaluate and correct the model.

    Understand the Model’s Scope of Application

    While Natural Language Processing (NLP) is an excellent technology, it may not produce accurate results for tasks that fall outside its scope of application. For instance, general-purpose models might not fully comprehend legal documents or medical data rich in specialized terminology.

    Therefore, when utilizing NLP, it is important to check the model’s application scope beforehand. If you need to perform tasks beyond its scope, creating a custom model suited to that specific content can maximize the effectiveness of AI implementation.

    Consider Privacy and Security

    Since Natural Language Processing (NLP) may process data containing personal information, it is essential to consider privacy and security. For example, when chatbots or voice assistants handle personal data, there are risks of inappropriate use or information leaks. To maintain user trust, it is important to thoroughly implement measures such as data anonymization, encryption, and clearly defining the purpose of data usage.

     

    Conclusion

    In this article, we explained the overview, mechanisms, capabilities, and application examples of Natural Language Processing (NLP).

    By utilizing NLP, companies can leverage it in various business scenarios, such as conversational AI and text mining. Re-read this article to solidify your understanding of the mechanisms and representative use cases of NLP.

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  • What kind of problems do you have with low IT literacy? How to improve it

    What kind of problems do you have with low IT literacy? How to improve it

    In order to navigate the digitalization wave that companies and individuals face every day, it is essential to have the appropriate IT knowledge and skills. Companies and organizations in particular are required to improve the IT literacy of each employee.

    In this article, we will explain the basic concept of IT literacy, the problems caused by low IT literacy, and how companies and organizations can improve their IT literacy.

    What is IT literacy?

    IT literacy refers to the ability to have basic knowledge and skills about information technology and to use them appropriately. Roughly speaking, it can be said to be the skills and knowledge to master IT. Specifically, it includes basic computer and internet operations, data management, security awareness, and understanding and use of the latest technology.

    People with high IT literacy can flexibly respond to the introduction of new technologies and software and carry out their work efficiently. On the other hand, people with low IT literacy cannot keep up with the digitalization trend and may unintentionally cause security incidents. It is no exaggeration to say that IT literacy has become common sense in society and is needed regardless of industry or business type.

    Problems caused by low IT literacy

    Low IT literacy can cause a variety of problems. Let’s take a look at three typical problems.

    A security threat arises

    Low IT literacy can lead to a lack of security measures, such as the use of easy passwords and clicking on phishing links, which increases the security risk for the entire company.

    There is also a term “security literacy” that is specific to security. For more information on the importance of security literacy and how to educate employees.

    This leads to a decrease in productivity

    Another problem to be concerned about is the decline in work efficiency and productivity. For example, if you cannot operate basic software, you will spend a lot of time on simple tasks. Also, if you lack troubleshooting skills, it will take longer to solve problems and your productivity will decrease. If these problems accumulate, it may weaken your competitiveness and hinder your company’s growth. In these days when digitalization of work is progressing regardless of industry or business type, a decline in productivity due to lack of IT literacy is one of the major problems.

    Slow response to technological change

    Low IT literacy makes it easy for companies to resist the introduction of new technologies and systems. If companies are slow to respond to technological change, they may miss out on the latest business opportunities and fall behind in market competition. For example, if digital transformation (DX) is slow to be promoted, companies will not be able to respond quickly to customer needs, resulting in lost business opportunities.

    Additionally, many companies have introduced teleworking since around 2020 as a measure against the spread of COVID-19. Companies that quickly responded to these technological changes were able to continue their business activities even during the COVID-19 pandemic, but those that were not able to adapt must have had a very difficult time. It is important to remember that low IT literacy can lead to delays in responding to technological changes, which can lead to lost business opportunities.

    Why is it important to improve IT literacy in companies and organizations?

    Improving IT literacy is directly linked to the growth of companies and organizations. Low IT literacy can lead to concerns about decreased productivity and security risks, but improving IT literacy can solve these problems. In addition, it is possible to promote digital transformation and strengthen a company’s competitiveness.

    In order to promote digital transformation, it is essential for employees to have IT skills. Organizations with high IT literacy can quickly adopt new technologies and streamline business processes. In addition, proper management and analysis of data can help companies make strategic decisions.

    From this, it can be said that for a company or organization, improving the IT literacy of each employee will reduce security risks, improve the company’s competitiveness, and strengthen its position in the market.

    How to improve IT literacy within a company or organization

    Finally, we will briefly introduce how to improve IT literacy within companies and organizations.

    Implementing an effective education program

    For companies to improve their IT literacy, it is important to introduce a systematic education program. By providing a curriculum that allows employees to learn from the basics to advanced skills in stages and by providing practical training, the skills can be firmly established. It is also effective to provide a flexible learning environment by utilizing online courses and workshops.

    Actively introducing and utilizing the latest technology

    The introduction and use of the latest technology is the key to improving IT literacy. Actively introduce new tools and software and increase opportunities for employees to use them. It is also important to create an environment where employees can always acquire the latest knowledge through regular updates and training. By actively introducing and using the latest technology, you can build an organization that can quickly respond to technological change.

    Improving IT literacy is essential for the growth of not only individuals but also the entire company. Through appropriate educational programs and the introduction of the latest technology, we aim to create an organization in which all employees have high IT skills. By working to improve security awareness and business efficiency, we can strengthen our competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth.

     

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  • What kind of problems do you have with low IT literacy? How to improve it

    What kind of problems do you have with low IT literacy? How to improve it

    In order to navigate the digitalization wave that companies and individuals face every day, it is essential to have the appropriate IT knowledge and skills. Companies and organizations in particular are required to improve the IT literacy of each employee.

    In this article, we will explain the basic concept of IT literacy, the problems caused by low IT literacy, and how companies and organizations can improve their IT literacy.

    What is IT literacy?

    IT literacy refers to the ability to have basic knowledge and skills about information technology and to use them appropriately. Roughly speaking, it can be said to be the skills and knowledge to master IT. Specifically, it includes basic computer and internet operations, data management, security awareness, and understanding and use of the latest technology.

    People with high IT literacy can flexibly respond to the introduction of new technologies and software and carry out their work efficiently. On the other hand, people with low IT literacy cannot keep up with the digitalization trend and may unintentionally cause security incidents. It is no exaggeration to say that IT literacy has become common sense in society and is needed regardless of industry or business type.

    Problems caused by low IT literacy

    Low IT literacy can cause a variety of problems. Let’s take a look at three typical problems.

    A security threat arises

    Low IT literacy can lead to a lack of security measures, such as the use of easy passwords and clicking on phishing links, which increases the security risk for the entire company.

    There is also a term “security literacy” that is specific to security. For more information on the importance of security literacy and how to educate employees.

    This leads to a decrease in productivity

    Another problem to be concerned about is the decline in work efficiency and productivity. For example, if you cannot operate basic software, you will spend a lot of time on simple tasks. Also, if you lack troubleshooting skills, it will take longer to solve problems and your productivity will decrease. If these problems accumulate, it may weaken your competitiveness and hinder your company’s growth. In these days when digitalization of work is progressing regardless of industry or business type, a decline in productivity due to lack of IT literacy is one of the major problems.

    Slow response to technological change

    Low IT literacy makes it easy for companies to resist the introduction of new technologies and systems. If companies are slow to respond to technological change, they may miss out on the latest business opportunities and fall behind in market competition. For example, if digital transformation (DX) is slow to be promoted, companies will not be able to respond quickly to customer needs, resulting in lost business opportunities.

    Additionally, many companies have introduced teleworking since around 2020 as a measure against the spread of COVID-19. Companies that quickly responded to these technological changes were able to continue their business activities even during the COVID-19 pandemic, but those that were not able to adapt must have had a very difficult time. It is important to remember that low IT literacy can lead to delays in responding to technological changes, which can lead to lost business opportunities.

    Why is it important to improve IT literacy in companies and organizations?

    Improving IT literacy is directly linked to the growth of companies and organizations. Low IT literacy can lead to concerns about decreased productivity and security risks, but improving IT literacy can solve these problems. In addition, it is possible to promote digital transformation and strengthen a company’s competitiveness.

    In order to promote digital transformation, it is essential for employees to have IT skills. Organizations with high IT literacy can quickly adopt new technologies and streamline business processes. In addition, proper management and analysis of data can help companies make strategic decisions.

    From this, it can be said that for a company or organization, improving the IT literacy of each employee will reduce security risks, improve the company’s competitiveness, and strengthen its position in the market.

    How to improve IT literacy within a company or organization

    Finally, we will briefly introduce how to improve IT literacy within companies and organizations.

    Implementing an effective education program

    For companies to improve their IT literacy, it is important to introduce a systematic education program. By providing a curriculum that allows employees to learn from the basics to advanced skills in stages and by providing practical training, the skills can be firmly established. It is also effective to provide a flexible learning environment by utilizing online courses and workshops.

    Actively introducing and utilizing the latest technology

    The introduction and use of the latest technology is the key to improving IT literacy. Actively introduce new tools and software and increase opportunities for employees to use them. It is also important to create an environment where employees can always acquire the latest knowledge through regular updates and training. By actively introducing and using the latest technology, you can build an organization that can quickly respond to technological change.

    Improving IT literacy is essential for the growth of not only individuals but also the entire company. Through appropriate educational programs and the introduction of the latest technology, we aim to create an organization in which all employees have high IT skills. By working to improve security awareness and business efficiency, we can strengthen our competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth.

     

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  • What kind of problems do you have with low IT literacy? How to improve it

    What kind of problems do you have with low IT literacy? How to improve it

    In order to navigate the digitalization wave that companies and individuals face every day, it is essential to have the appropriate IT knowledge and skills. Companies and organizations in particular are required to improve the IT literacy of each employee.

    In this article, we will explain the basic concept of IT literacy, the problems caused by low IT literacy, and how companies and organizations can improve their IT literacy.

    What is IT literacy?

    IT literacy refers to the ability to have basic knowledge and skills about information technology and to use them appropriately. Roughly speaking, it can be said to be the skills and knowledge to master IT. Specifically, it includes basic computer and internet operations, data management, security awareness, and understanding and use of the latest technology.

    People with high IT literacy can flexibly respond to the introduction of new technologies and software and carry out their work efficiently. On the other hand, people with low IT literacy cannot keep up with the digitalization trend and may unintentionally cause security incidents. It is no exaggeration to say that IT literacy has become common sense in society and is needed regardless of industry or business type.

    Problems caused by low IT literacy

    Low IT literacy can cause a variety of problems. Let’s take a look at three typical problems.

    A security threat arises

    Low IT literacy can lead to a lack of security measures, such as the use of easy passwords and clicking on phishing links, which increases the security risk for the entire company.

    There is also a term “security literacy” that is specific to security. For more information on the importance of security literacy and how to educate employees.

    This leads to a decrease in productivity

    Another problem to be concerned about is the decline in work efficiency and productivity. For example, if you cannot operate basic software, you will spend a lot of time on simple tasks. Also, if you lack troubleshooting skills, it will take longer to solve problems and your productivity will decrease. If these problems accumulate, it may weaken your competitiveness and hinder your company’s growth. In these days when digitalization of work is progressing regardless of industry or business type, a decline in productivity due to lack of IT literacy is one of the major problems.

    Slow response to technological change

    Low IT literacy makes it easy for companies to resist the introduction of new technologies and systems. If companies are slow to respond to technological change, they may miss out on the latest business opportunities and fall behind in market competition. For example, if digital transformation (DX) is slow to be promoted, companies will not be able to respond quickly to customer needs, resulting in lost business opportunities.

    Additionally, many companies have introduced teleworking since around 2020 as a measure against the spread of COVID-19. Companies that quickly responded to these technological changes were able to continue their business activities even during the COVID-19 pandemic, but those that were not able to adapt must have had a very difficult time. It is important to remember that low IT literacy can lead to delays in responding to technological changes, which can lead to lost business opportunities.

    Why is it important to improve IT literacy in companies and organizations?

    Improving IT literacy is directly linked to the growth of companies and organizations. Low IT literacy can lead to concerns about decreased productivity and security risks, but improving IT literacy can solve these problems. In addition, it is possible to promote digital transformation and strengthen a company’s competitiveness.

    In order to promote digital transformation, it is essential for employees to have IT skills. Organizations with high IT literacy can quickly adopt new technologies and streamline business processes. In addition, proper management and analysis of data can help companies make strategic decisions.

    From this, it can be said that for a company or organization, improving the IT literacy of each employee will reduce security risks, improve the company’s competitiveness, and strengthen its position in the market.

    How to improve IT literacy within a company or organization

    Finally, we will briefly introduce how to improve IT literacy within companies and organizations.

    Implementing an effective education program

    For companies to improve their IT literacy, it is important to introduce a systematic education program. By providing a curriculum that allows employees to learn from the basics to advanced skills in stages and by providing practical training, the skills can be firmly established. It is also effective to provide a flexible learning environment by utilizing online courses and workshops.

    Actively introducing and utilizing the latest technology

    The introduction and use of the latest technology is the key to improving IT literacy. Actively introduce new tools and software and increase opportunities for employees to use them. It is also important to create an environment where employees can always acquire the latest knowledge through regular updates and training. By actively introducing and using the latest technology, you can build an organization that can quickly respond to technological change.

    Improving IT literacy is essential for the growth of not only individuals but also the entire company. Through appropriate educational programs and the introduction of the latest technology, we aim to create an organization in which all employees have high IT skills. By working to improve security awareness and business efficiency, we can strengthen our competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth.

     

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  • What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation

    Digital twin is a technology that uses digital technology to collect data in physical space and recreate the real world in virtual space “like a twin.” By using technologies such as AI and IoT, we simulate the future by acquiring data on places, people, things, etc. and recreating it in virtual space.

    In this article, we will introduce digital twins in detail, including their benefits and usage examples.

     

    What is a digital twin?

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-2

    For example, by using digital twins to collect and analyze data related to problems in real time, it is possible to quickly correct the cause. In addition, by accumulating data that reflects usage status in a virtual space, it becomes easier to improve products. In this chapter, we will explain in detail what a digital twin is.

    Digital twin is a technology that creates a copy of the real world in virtual space.

    Digital twin is one of the latest technologies that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry. This technology can reproduce physical elements such as real-world products and equipment in a virtual space.

    There are many benefits to introducing this technology, but the major one is that it can improve the efficiency and productivity of equipment. Specifically, it helps troubleshoot and prevent maintenance on production lines. It can also be used for product quality control and new product development.

    Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications’ digital twin initiatives

    The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications is proceeding with the construction of digital twins for local government facilities and buildings. This initiative is expected to enable disaster response and efficient facility management.

    In the manufacturing industry, in addition to optimizing manufacturing processes, it can be used in various aspects such as quality control and new product development. Therefore, digital twins will become an increasingly important technology in the manufacturing industry in the future. In addition, it is expected that by being used in the public sector, as in the case of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, it will contribute to improving the efficiency of society as a whole.

     

    Differences between digital twin, simulation, and metaverse

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-3

    Some people may be confused because there are many similar concepts such as digital twin, simulation, and metaverse. From here, I will explain the differences between digital twins and other concepts.

    How is it different from simulation?

    Simulation refers to recreating what is happening in real space in another location. On the other hand, digital twin can be said to be a method of simulation, but the difference is that it is done in real time. Digital twins can be recreated in virtual space in real time. This makes it possible to instantly grasp the situation in real space with high precision and perform appropriate simulations.

    Digital twins can be used to optimize product design and manufacturing processes before the actual car is manufactured. It is also possible to improve productivity by simulating the settings and operation methods of production line equipment.

    How is it different from the Metaverse?

    Digital twins can be used efficiently in product development, manufacturing, and maintenance by creating a physical model of a product or process and simulating its operation and behavior . On the other hand, the Metaverse is a virtual space that does not necessarily correspond to the real world and is used for various purposes such as business and entertainment.

    In the manufacturing industry, the Metaverse is used in a variety of ways, such as virtually designing and simulating products on the Metaverse, or building a digital twin factory on the Metaverse to reproduce a production line and simulate it in real time.

     

    5 benefits of digital twins in the manufacturing industry

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-4

    Digital twins bring five benefits to the manufacturing industry:

    • Improving production efficiency
    • Strengthening quality control
    • Development cost reduction
    • Realizing on-demand production
    • Supply chain optimization

    Advantage 1. Improved production efficiency

    By introducing a digital twin, it is possible to quickly create a highly accurate virtual model of a production line and design an optimal production process. This eliminates the need for time-consuming repetition of conventional trial-and-error improvement work, and is expected to improve production efficiency. In addition, since the entire production line can be understood, it leads to smooth coordination between processes and automation of work.

    Advantage 2. Strengthening quality control

    This makes it possible to detect abnormal values ​​and defective areas during quality control and take prompt action. Furthermore, with the introduction of digital twins, quality control work that previously required on-site observation and measurement may become faster and more accurate.

    Advantage 3: Reduced development costs

    Utilizing digital twins can reduce the number of prototypes and prototypes required for product development. Additionally, by simulating product design and production processes, problems can be discovered and improved at an early stage during the development stage. This will make it possible to reduce development costs.

    Advantage 4. Realization of on-demand production

    By leveraging digital twins, you can achieve fast and flexible on-demand production. In conventional manufacturing, production lines were often designed for mass production, so small-lot production and customized production tended to be time-consuming and costly. However, by using a digital twin, product design and manufacturing processes can be virtually reproduced, making it possible to quickly and easily make design changes and optimize production lines. This allows us to handle small-lot and customized production, allowing us to respond more flexibly to customer needs.

    Benefit 5. Supply chain optimization

    Supply chain optimization is possible by utilizing digital twins. The supply chain is the flow from the procurement of raw materials to the shipment of products, and is a complex process that involves many elements such as production lines, logistics, and inventory.

    By using a digital twin, data on each element can be collected and reproduced virtually, making it possible to improve the efficiency of the entire supply chain, such as inventory optimization and production line optimization. In addition, visualization of logistics and inventory will improve the accuracy of demand forecasting and inventory management, which will also lead to cost reductions.

     

    Examples of digital twin usage in the manufacturing industry

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-5

    It would be a good idea to refer to case studies when actually implementing digital twins. You can compare the points you can incorporate in your company in the future with specific plans.

    Toyota | Used in demonstration experiments in smart cities

    The aim is to build a smart city where cars, energy, buildings, etc. are linked, and digital twins are used for simulations by reproducing equipment such as vehicles and energy systems in virtual space. Based on this result, we were able to work on the development of self-driving cars and improve Toyota’s technological capabilities.

    Renault | Used to improve efficiency of vehicle development process

    Renault uses digital twins to streamline its vehicle development process. Using digital twins, it is now possible to perform verification and evaluation in a virtual space during the product development process.

    Specifically, we use 3D digital twins to consistently manage everything from product development to manufacturing and maintenance. This makes it possible to optimize designs and production lines, contributing to shorter development times and lower costs.

    Daikin Industries | Utilizing to create a “factory that never stops”

    Daikin Industries is currently using digital twins to create a “non-stop factory” (a factory that minimizes production line stagnation). Using digital twins, we are working to predict and improve production line stagnation in factories and improve production efficiency. We reproduce the conditions of manufacturing equipment and assembly work in virtual space to monitor and troubleshoot production lines.

    It can be said that the introduction of digital twins has minimized production line downtime and improved productivity.

    DENSO|Used to realize Maas

    DENSO is working to realize MaaS (Mobility as a Service) services by utilizing digital twins. Specifically, the purpose is to provide appropriate services based on vehicle driving data and customer information, and to improve customer satisfaction. Utilizing digital twins enables more efficient vehicle management, leading to the provision of MaaS services.

     

    Services that utilize digital twins | What is the supply chain optimization (SCO) service provided by Hitachi?

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-6

    In the manufacturing industry, digital twins are a hot technology for optimizing supply chains and improving production efficiency. Hitachi’s supply chain optimization (SCO) services utilize digital twins to improve supply chain efficiency, reduce costs, shorten lead times, optimize inventory, and improve customer service. What is attracting attention is that it is possible to simulate “production, logistics, and sales” as a set, rather than just production or logistics alone.

    Specifically, we will reproduce the entire product cycle as a digital twin and optimize every step of the way, including product design, manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service. In addition, by collecting information on product inventory and logistics in real time and performing simulations on digital twins, we can improve supply chain efficiency and reduce costs.

     

    Technologies used in digital twin

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-7

    Digital twins in the manufacturing industry utilize IoT, AI, 5G, VR, etc. to improve production processes.

    [IoT] for data collection

    IoT is a technology primarily used to collect data in digital twins. By attaching cameras and sensors to machines and products on the production line, data on product conditions and production processes can be collected from factory equipment and equipment in real time. This allows it to be used in a wide variety of applications, such as product quality control and production process optimization.

    For example, food manufacturers may use IoT to collect information such as product temperature, humidity, and vibration in real time to ensure product quality.

    With the introduction of IoT, tasks that were previously done manually can be automated and more efficient production processes can be realized.

    [AI] for data analysis

    AI is a technology that collects collected data, learns from it, and performs advanced data analysis to identify problems and suggest improvements. By analyzing the data collected by IoT, it is possible to optimize production processes and predict problems.

    For example, there are cases where AI is used to analyze production line data and predict and respond to the occurrence of defective products in advance, leading to improved production line efficiency and quality. The introduction of AI can significantly reduce the time it takes to analyze data and solve problems.

    [5G] for sending and receiving data in real time

    5G is a next-generation communication standard that enables high-speed and stable communication, and is a technology for performing advanced data analysis. In the manufacturing industry, equipment, robots, sensors, etc. in the factory may be required to send and receive data in real time. Utilizing 5G will enable high-speed and stable communications, making it possible to remotely control devices and achieve advanced automation.

    For example, there is a case where remote operations using 5G were used to remotely carry out work in offshore oil fields, successfully reducing the number of personnel. The introduction of 5G will enable rapid response in product quality control and production line optimization.

    [VR] for visualizing digital space

    VR is a technology that enables more effective decision-making, such as digital twin simulation and troubleshooting, by visualizing digital space. In the manufacturing industry, factory equipment and processes can be reproduced and visually confirmed in 3D space.

    For example, VR can be used to simulate the design and layout of equipment in a factory, leading to improved productivity and reduced manpower. Additionally, troubleshooting, which previously required manual on-site work, will now be able to be done remotely.

    [Blockchain] for storing data safely and transparently

    Blockchain is a digital technology that uses distributed ledger technology to store information securely and transparently, and to prevent tampering. Multiple computers distributed on the network approve transaction information and data, and the information is prevented from being tampered with by storing it in a chain-like data structure that connects collections of data called blocks.

    Also, because it is on a network, there is no centralized administrator. This makes it highly secure and reliable, and is used in a variety of fields. Although it is known to be mainly used for virtual currency transactions, it is a technology that is expected to be applied in many other fields such as contract automation, voting systems, and supply chain management.

    Digital Twin Introduction | Two Challenges

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-8

    Digital twin is a technology that will bring about major changes in the manufacturing industry, but there are several challenges to implementing it. Above all, let’s consider the balance between implementation costs and ROI improvement, as well as security issues.

    Balance between implementation cost and ROI improvement

    Implementing a digital twin can be expensive. Therefore, when companies decide to introduce it, they need to consider the balance between implementation costs and ROI (Return On Investment). On the other hand, the introduction of digital twins can improve productivity, improve quality, and detect failures early, and can be expected to have significant economic effects from a long-term perspective.

    security issues

    With the introduction of digital twins, security issues are also emerging. Digital twins enable real-time monitoring of products and systems, making them potential targets for hackers and cyberattacks.

     

    Future outlook for digital twins

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-9

    In the manufacturing industry, where digital twins are attracting attention, collaboration between digital twins and metaverses is expected for the future. The impact that future technological advances will have on the manufacturing industry is also a hot topic.

    Collaboration between digital twin and metaverse

    The reason why digital twins and metaverses are expected to work together is that large-scale simulations that cannot be realized in the real world can be performed in virtual space. Using digital twin technology, it is possible to virtually reproduce real space in the Metaverse, which is expected to enable a realistic product experience.

    For example, by linking detailed product design information provided by digital twins with virtual space display and operability provided by Metaverse, product design and performance improvements can be made more quickly and accurately.

    Future technological advances and their impact on the manufacturing industry

    As for the impact that future technological advances will have on the manufacturing industry, advances in technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and 5G are expected to improve productivity, quality control, and supply chains in the manufacturing industry.

    For example, automation using AI can make manufacturing processes more efficient and improve quality control, and blockchain can improve supply chain transparency, making the entire supply chain more efficient. can.

    Summary

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-10

    In the future, it is believed that the collaboration between digital twins and the metaverse, as well as advances in technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and 5G, will make it possible for manufacturers to provide more efficient and high-quality products more quickly. However, it is also necessary to respond to new challenges and risks arising from technological advances, and it is important for the manufacturing industry to continue to respond to technological advances and achieve sustainable growth.

     

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  • What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation

    Digital twin is a technology that uses digital technology to collect data in physical space and recreate the real world in virtual space “like a twin.” By using technologies such as AI and IoT, we simulate the future by acquiring data on places, people, things, etc. and recreating it in virtual space.

    In this article, we will introduce digital twins in detail, including their benefits and usage examples.

     

    What is a digital twin?

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-2

    For example, by using digital twins to collect and analyze data related to problems in real time, it is possible to quickly correct the cause. In addition, by accumulating data that reflects usage status in a virtual space, it becomes easier to improve products. In this chapter, we will explain in detail what a digital twin is.

    Digital twin is a technology that creates a copy of the real world in virtual space.

    Digital twin is one of the latest technologies that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry. This technology can reproduce physical elements such as real-world products and equipment in a virtual space.

    There are many benefits to introducing this technology, but the major one is that it can improve the efficiency and productivity of equipment. Specifically, it helps troubleshoot and prevent maintenance on production lines. It can also be used for product quality control and new product development.

    Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications’ digital twin initiatives

    The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications is proceeding with the construction of digital twins for local government facilities and buildings. This initiative is expected to enable disaster response and efficient facility management.

    In the manufacturing industry, in addition to optimizing manufacturing processes, it can be used in various aspects such as quality control and new product development. Therefore, digital twins will become an increasingly important technology in the manufacturing industry in the future. In addition, it is expected that by being used in the public sector, as in the case of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, it will contribute to improving the efficiency of society as a whole.

     

    Differences between digital twin, simulation, and metaverse

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-3

    Some people may be confused because there are many similar concepts such as digital twin, simulation, and metaverse. From here, I will explain the differences between digital twins and other concepts.

    How is it different from simulation?

    Simulation refers to recreating what is happening in real space in another location. On the other hand, digital twin can be said to be a method of simulation, but the difference is that it is done in real time. Digital twins can be recreated in virtual space in real time. This makes it possible to instantly grasp the situation in real space with high precision and perform appropriate simulations.

    Digital twins can be used to optimize product design and manufacturing processes before the actual car is manufactured. It is also possible to improve productivity by simulating the settings and operation methods of production line equipment.

    How is it different from the Metaverse?

    Digital twins can be used efficiently in product development, manufacturing, and maintenance by creating a physical model of a product or process and simulating its operation and behavior . On the other hand, the Metaverse is a virtual space that does not necessarily correspond to the real world and is used for various purposes such as business and entertainment.

    In the manufacturing industry, the Metaverse is used in a variety of ways, such as virtually designing and simulating products on the Metaverse, or building a digital twin factory on the Metaverse to reproduce a production line and simulate it in real time.

     

    5 benefits of digital twins in the manufacturing industry

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-4

    Digital twins bring five benefits to the manufacturing industry:

    • Improving production efficiency
    • Strengthening quality control
    • Development cost reduction
    • Realizing on-demand production
    • Supply chain optimization

    Advantage 1. Improved production efficiency

    By introducing a digital twin, it is possible to quickly create a highly accurate virtual model of a production line and design an optimal production process. This eliminates the need for time-consuming repetition of conventional trial-and-error improvement work, and is expected to improve production efficiency. In addition, since the entire production line can be understood, it leads to smooth coordination between processes and automation of work.

    Advantage 2. Strengthening quality control

    This makes it possible to detect abnormal values ​​and defective areas during quality control and take prompt action. Furthermore, with the introduction of digital twins, quality control work that previously required on-site observation and measurement may become faster and more accurate.

    Advantage 3: Reduced development costs

    Utilizing digital twins can reduce the number of prototypes and prototypes required for product development. Additionally, by simulating product design and production processes, problems can be discovered and improved at an early stage during the development stage. This will make it possible to reduce development costs.

    Advantage 4. Realization of on-demand production

    By leveraging digital twins, you can achieve fast and flexible on-demand production. In conventional manufacturing, production lines were often designed for mass production, so small-lot production and customized production tended to be time-consuming and costly. However, by using a digital twin, product design and manufacturing processes can be virtually reproduced, making it possible to quickly and easily make design changes and optimize production lines. This allows us to handle small-lot and customized production, allowing us to respond more flexibly to customer needs.

    Benefit 5. Supply chain optimization

    Supply chain optimization is possible by utilizing digital twins. The supply chain is the flow from the procurement of raw materials to the shipment of products, and is a complex process that involves many elements such as production lines, logistics, and inventory.

    By using a digital twin, data on each element can be collected and reproduced virtually, making it possible to improve the efficiency of the entire supply chain, such as inventory optimization and production line optimization. In addition, visualization of logistics and inventory will improve the accuracy of demand forecasting and inventory management, which will also lead to cost reductions.

     

    Examples of digital twin usage in the manufacturing industry

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-5

    It would be a good idea to refer to case studies when actually implementing digital twins. You can compare the points you can incorporate in your company in the future with specific plans.

    Toyota | Used in demonstration experiments in smart cities

    The aim is to build a smart city where cars, energy, buildings, etc. are linked, and digital twins are used for simulations by reproducing equipment such as vehicles and energy systems in virtual space. Based on this result, we were able to work on the development of self-driving cars and improve Toyota’s technological capabilities.

    Renault | Used to improve efficiency of vehicle development process

    Renault uses digital twins to streamline its vehicle development process. Using digital twins, it is now possible to perform verification and evaluation in a virtual space during the product development process.

    Specifically, we use 3D digital twins to consistently manage everything from product development to manufacturing and maintenance. This makes it possible to optimize designs and production lines, contributing to shorter development times and lower costs.

    Daikin Industries | Utilizing to create a “factory that never stops”

    Daikin Industries is currently using digital twins to create a “non-stop factory” (a factory that minimizes production line stagnation). Using digital twins, we are working to predict and improve production line stagnation in factories and improve production efficiency. We reproduce the conditions of manufacturing equipment and assembly work in virtual space to monitor and troubleshoot production lines.

    It can be said that the introduction of digital twins has minimized production line downtime and improved productivity.

    DENSO|Used to realize Maas

    DENSO is working to realize MaaS (Mobility as a Service) services by utilizing digital twins. Specifically, the purpose is to provide appropriate services based on vehicle driving data and customer information, and to improve customer satisfaction. Utilizing digital twins enables more efficient vehicle management, leading to the provision of MaaS services.

     

    Services that utilize digital twins | What is the supply chain optimization (SCO) service provided by Hitachi?

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-6

    In the manufacturing industry, digital twins are a hot technology for optimizing supply chains and improving production efficiency. Hitachi’s supply chain optimization (SCO) services utilize digital twins to improve supply chain efficiency, reduce costs, shorten lead times, optimize inventory, and improve customer service. What is attracting attention is that it is possible to simulate “production, logistics, and sales” as a set, rather than just production or logistics alone.

    Specifically, we will reproduce the entire product cycle as a digital twin and optimize every step of the way, including product design, manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service. In addition, by collecting information on product inventory and logistics in real time and performing simulations on digital twins, we can improve supply chain efficiency and reduce costs.

     

    Technologies used in digital twin

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-7

    Digital twins in the manufacturing industry utilize IoT, AI, 5G, VR, etc. to improve production processes.

    [IoT] for data collection

    IoT is a technology primarily used to collect data in digital twins. By attaching cameras and sensors to machines and products on the production line, data on product conditions and production processes can be collected from factory equipment and equipment in real time. This allows it to be used in a wide variety of applications, such as product quality control and production process optimization.

    For example, food manufacturers may use IoT to collect information such as product temperature, humidity, and vibration in real time to ensure product quality.

    With the introduction of IoT, tasks that were previously done manually can be automated and more efficient production processes can be realized.

    [AI] for data analysis

    AI is a technology that collects collected data, learns from it, and performs advanced data analysis to identify problems and suggest improvements. By analyzing the data collected by IoT, it is possible to optimize production processes and predict problems.

    For example, there are cases where AI is used to analyze production line data and predict and respond to the occurrence of defective products in advance, leading to improved production line efficiency and quality. The introduction of AI can significantly reduce the time it takes to analyze data and solve problems.

    [5G] for sending and receiving data in real time

    5G is a next-generation communication standard that enables high-speed and stable communication, and is a technology for performing advanced data analysis. In the manufacturing industry, equipment, robots, sensors, etc. in the factory may be required to send and receive data in real time. Utilizing 5G will enable high-speed and stable communications, making it possible to remotely control devices and achieve advanced automation.

    For example, there is a case where remote operations using 5G were used to remotely carry out work in offshore oil fields, successfully reducing the number of personnel. The introduction of 5G will enable rapid response in product quality control and production line optimization.

    [VR] for visualizing digital space

    VR is a technology that enables more effective decision-making, such as digital twin simulation and troubleshooting, by visualizing digital space. In the manufacturing industry, factory equipment and processes can be reproduced and visually confirmed in 3D space.

    For example, VR can be used to simulate the design and layout of equipment in a factory, leading to improved productivity and reduced manpower. Additionally, troubleshooting, which previously required manual on-site work, will now be able to be done remotely.

    [Blockchain] for storing data safely and transparently

    Blockchain is a digital technology that uses distributed ledger technology to store information securely and transparently, and to prevent tampering. Multiple computers distributed on the network approve transaction information and data, and the information is prevented from being tampered with by storing it in a chain-like data structure that connects collections of data called blocks.

    Also, because it is on a network, there is no centralized administrator. This makes it highly secure and reliable, and is used in a variety of fields. Although it is known to be mainly used for virtual currency transactions, it is a technology that is expected to be applied in many other fields such as contract automation, voting systems, and supply chain management.

    Digital Twin Introduction | Two Challenges

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-8

    Digital twin is a technology that will bring about major changes in the manufacturing industry, but there are several challenges to implementing it. Above all, let’s consider the balance between implementation costs and ROI improvement, as well as security issues.

    Balance between implementation cost and ROI improvement

    Implementing a digital twin can be expensive. Therefore, when companies decide to introduce it, they need to consider the balance between implementation costs and ROI (Return On Investment). On the other hand, the introduction of digital twins can improve productivity, improve quality, and detect failures early, and can be expected to have significant economic effects from a long-term perspective.

    security issues

    With the introduction of digital twins, security issues are also emerging. Digital twins enable real-time monitoring of products and systems, making them potential targets for hackers and cyberattacks.

     

    Future outlook for digital twins

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-9

    In the manufacturing industry, where digital twins are attracting attention, collaboration between digital twins and metaverses is expected for the future. The impact that future technological advances will have on the manufacturing industry is also a hot topic.

    Collaboration between digital twin and metaverse

    The reason why digital twins and metaverses are expected to work together is that large-scale simulations that cannot be realized in the real world can be performed in virtual space. Using digital twin technology, it is possible to virtually reproduce real space in the Metaverse, which is expected to enable a realistic product experience.

    For example, by linking detailed product design information provided by digital twins with virtual space display and operability provided by Metaverse, product design and performance improvements can be made more quickly and accurately.

    Future technological advances and their impact on the manufacturing industry

    As for the impact that future technological advances will have on the manufacturing industry, advances in technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and 5G are expected to improve productivity, quality control, and supply chains in the manufacturing industry.

    For example, automation using AI can make manufacturing processes more efficient and improve quality control, and blockchain can improve supply chain transparency, making the entire supply chain more efficient. can.

    Summary

    What is the digital twin that is attracting attention in the manufacturing industry? Explaining the benefits and examples of implementation-10

    In the future, it is believed that the collaboration between digital twins and the metaverse, as well as advances in technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and 5G, will make it possible for manufacturers to provide more efficient and high-quality products more quickly. However, it is also necessary to respond to new challenges and risks arising from technological advances, and it is important for the manufacturing industry to continue to respond to technological advances and achieve sustainable growth.

     

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  • What is an IT system for inventory management? Functionality and benefits & precautions to introduce

    What is an IT system for inventory management? Functionality and benefits & precautions to introduce

    Maintaining proper inventory is essential for reducing costs and maximizing profits. To improve the efficiency of inventory management, it is effective to introduce an IT system that manages machines instead of human hands. In this article, we will introduce what an IT system for warehouse management is, taking into account its functionality, merits and precautions to be introduced.

     

    Purpose and problems of inventory management


    What is the purpose of warehouse management? Also, I am worried that there may be troubles or problems in inventory management. For those who manage inventory from now on, I will introduce the purpose and problems of inventory management.

    What is the purpose of inventory management?

    The purpose of inventory management is to maintain proper inventory. Inventory management makes it possible to properly manage the inventory of raw materials, work-in-process, products, etc. that exist in a company from arrival to shipment in light of activities such as production and sales. Maintaining proper inventory will reduce unnecessary costs and maximize the profits of the company.

    Problems in conventional warehouse management

    In the conventional warehouse management, there were many cases where it was done manually by using Excel or the like. However, with manual inventory management, problems such as human error are likely to occur, management quality varies, and data and inventory status do not match. By introducing IT and systematizing it, human error can be prevented and it will lead to more accurate inventory management.

     

    Basic functions of IT system for inventory management


    We will explain the basic functions of the IT system for inventory management.

    Entry / exit management function

    The warehousing/delivery management function is a function to support the products scheduled to be received/shipped and the inspection work for them. For example, when a product is stored, a barcode containing product information is issued to manage warehousing and delivery. In addition, it is equipped with functions such as automatically managing both in-stock and shipped products on the system.

    Inventory list function

    The inventory list function is a function that allows you to manage the number of inventories from any perspective, such as for each product or storage location. With the inventory list function, it is possible to create a picking list and extract only shipped product data.

    Inspection function

    The inspection function streamlines the inspection work of products received and shipped. For example, you can check the actual number of products, the number on slips, items, etc. by using a handy terminal or tablet, and reflect the read data in the system. Since the inspection work can be semi-automated, it contributes to reducing the burden on the person in charge of the work.

    Return management function

    Inventory information can be confusing if the response to returned products varies from person to person. The return management function unifies return management and prevents the information from becoming complicated.

    Inventory function

    The inventory function is to check if there is a difference between the actual inventory and the inventory data on the system. By linking the system with a handy terminal, etc., the efficiency of inventory work can be improved.

    Inventory analysis function

    The inventory analysis function analyzes the arrival, shipment, and inventory data from the past to the present. The inventory analysis function can be useful for forecasting demand in the market and calculating inventory lead times.

    Data extraction function

    The data extraction function extracts inventory data, etc. from any cut. Data analysis can be further promoted by using functions such as BI tools that cooperate with the outside for data extraction.

    Master management function

    Master management is a function that centrally manages information (master data) such as customers, employees, and products. Data management efficiency is further improved because data can be registered for inventory classification, storage space, business partners, system personnel, and so on.

     

    Benefits of introducing an inventory management system


    Introducing an IT system is effective in solving problems such as human error and variation in quality control. Let’s take a look at the benefits of introducing an inventory management system.

    Cost reduction is possible

    If the work becomes more efficient by introducing the system, it will be possible to work with a smaller number of people in a shorter time than before, and it will be possible to reduce labor costs and other costs.

    Visualization of inventory status

    If you can see the receipt / delivery data immediately, you will be able to instantly grasp the inventory status in real time, and you will be able to quickly place orders for inventories that are likely to be out of stock.

    Improvement of work efficiency

    Human error can be prevented by introducing an inventory management system, such as information can be obtained simply by scanning the barcode with a handy terminal. In addition, it will be possible to simplify the work, which will make the work more efficient. Furthermore, by utilizing handy terminals and IT, it is possible to perform a certain level of work without relying on experts or beginners, and it is possible to standardize work without depending on individual experience.

     

    Precautions when introducing an inventory management system


    Although an inventory management system is convenient, it does not always give good results once it is introduced. Then, what kind of points should be carefully introduced? This item introduces the points to note when introducing the system.

    Clarify the purpose of introduction

    Even if the system is introduced without understanding the current situation, the expected effect may not be obtained, and there may be cases where the site is confused and troubles occur, which has a negative effect.
    Before deploying the system, first understand the current problems so that the deployment will proceed smoothly.

    The balance between necessary expenses and issues is important

    The most important point when adopting an inventory management system is whether you can get results that are worth the cost. Please note that the larger the system, the more costs will be incurred. Also, analog management can save you money, but it can also be expensive. In order to introduce the system, it is necessary to consider the balance of cost-effectiveness.

    Consider introduction in consultation with the site

    If the system introduction is left to the vendor, it may be far from the actual operation. Therefore, it is important to consult with the site and discuss the problems and issues before introducing a system that suits the application.

    About the free version of the inventory management system

    There is a free version of the inventory management system, which you can use for trial purposes. However, in the case of the free version, not only is the functionality of the product inferior to the paid version, but there are also cases where security is inadequate, so it is necessary to take measures in-house. Also, even if it is free, there are cases where you have to prepare the tool for inputting yourself, which may take extra effort and cost, so you need to look at the total balance when using it.

     

    Key points when choosing an inventory management system


    What points should I be aware of when choosing an inventory management system? Here are some points to consider when choosing an inventory management system.

    Recommended is cloud management type

    There are two types of inventory management systems: cloud management type and non-cloud management type.
    Since the cloud type inventory management type does not require system development or infrastructure procurement, it can be introduced quickly at a lower cost than the non-cloud management type that requires in-house server management and development.

    Check compatible devices

    The inventory management system has some useful features, but it doesn’t make sense if the model doesn’t support your device. For example, if the terminal can use a browser, the inventory management system can be used in various crises, but some terminals cannot be used depending on the supported OS, so it is necessary to check before introducing.

    Presence or absence of consultation desk

    Since the inventory management system entrusts the company’s data to the outside, it is safe to have a contact point where you can consult with us immediately if you do not understand the operation when something happens. It is also important to check that the server is maintained daily. Cyber ​​attacks change hands every day and approach important data. It is a good idea to check in advance whether the server operating company that uses the inventory management system frequently publishes maintenance information.

    UMWELT is recommended for the introduction of an inventory management system!

    The inventory management system is a cloud-based system that does not cost money, and it is safe to have a free consultation desk. Therefore, I recommend her UMWELT of TRYETING, which is a no-code AI cloud.

    There are many scenes to play an active part

    UMWELT enables the construction and maintenance of the optimum system for the company by standardizing the data format that differs for each company. Since it is possible to build a system that suits the company, it is possible to introduce a system that suits the company, such as the scale of the business, the number of products handled, the purpose and usage. Therefore, it can be used in a wide range of fields such as demand forecasting, shift management, inventory management, material development, and DX. In addition, you can receive support from dedicated staff during the introduction and operation phases.

    Can be introduced at low cost

    UMWELT is a subscription service, so you can keep costs down at low cost. The usage fee of UMWELT is the lowest in the industry, and it is a fixed monthly fee, so you can use it with confidence in terms of cost. In addition, UMWELT has flexible plans according to the purpose, so you can use it without waste.

    Equipped with educated AI, no hassle

    UMWELT provides a wide range of functions required for AI introduction and construction. UMWELT has a number of algorithms. By freely combining these algorithms like Lego blocks, anyone can easily build and manage the AI ​​system they are looking for. For example, it is possible to build an inventory management system linked to demand forecasting using AI.

    UMWELT is also equipped with a function that simplifies the pre-processing of data, which accounts for 80% of the time when AI is introduced, and since it does not interfere with the existing system, PoC and this introduction will not fail. Since the AI ​​engine that has already been proven can be used, more accurate effects can be expected.

    Summary

    By systematizing inventory management, it can be useful for improving the efficiency of inventory management operations and maintaining proper inventory. We especially recommend a cloud-based system that can be started at low cost. If you want to systematize inventory management, why not consider UMWELT, which is provided by TRYING.

     

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  • What is an IT system for inventory management? Functionality and benefits & precautions to introduce

    What is an IT system for inventory management? Functionality and benefits & precautions to introduce

    Maintaining proper inventory is essential for reducing costs and maximizing profits. To improve the efficiency of inventory management, it is effective to introduce an IT system that manages machines instead of human hands. In this article, we will introduce what an IT system for warehouse management is, taking into account its functionality, merits and precautions to be introduced.

     

    Purpose and problems of inventory management


    What is the purpose of warehouse management? Also, I am worried that there may be troubles or problems in inventory management. For those who manage inventory from now on, I will introduce the purpose and problems of inventory management.

    What is the purpose of inventory management?

    The purpose of inventory management is to maintain proper inventory. Inventory management makes it possible to properly manage the inventory of raw materials, work-in-process, products, etc. that exist in a company from arrival to shipment in light of activities such as production and sales. Maintaining proper inventory will reduce unnecessary costs and maximize the profits of the company.

    Problems in conventional warehouse management

    In the conventional warehouse management, there were many cases where it was done manually by using Excel or the like. However, with manual inventory management, problems such as human error are likely to occur, management quality varies, and data and inventory status do not match. By introducing IT and systematizing it, human error can be prevented and it will lead to more accurate inventory management.

     

    Basic functions of IT system for inventory management


    We will explain the basic functions of the IT system for inventory management.

    Entry / exit management function

    The warehousing/delivery management function is a function to support the products scheduled to be received/shipped and the inspection work for them. For example, when a product is stored, a barcode containing product information is issued to manage warehousing and delivery. In addition, it is equipped with functions such as automatically managing both in-stock and shipped products on the system.

    Inventory list function

    The inventory list function is a function that allows you to manage the number of inventories from any perspective, such as for each product or storage location. With the inventory list function, it is possible to create a picking list and extract only shipped product data.

    Inspection function

    The inspection function streamlines the inspection work of products received and shipped. For example, you can check the actual number of products, the number on slips, items, etc. by using a handy terminal or tablet, and reflect the read data in the system. Since the inspection work can be semi-automated, it contributes to reducing the burden on the person in charge of the work.

    Return management function

    Inventory information can be confusing if the response to returned products varies from person to person. The return management function unifies return management and prevents the information from becoming complicated.

    Inventory function

    The inventory function is to check if there is a difference between the actual inventory and the inventory data on the system. By linking the system with a handy terminal, etc., the efficiency of inventory work can be improved.

    Inventory analysis function

    The inventory analysis function analyzes the arrival, shipment, and inventory data from the past to the present. The inventory analysis function can be useful for forecasting demand in the market and calculating inventory lead times.

    Data extraction function

    The data extraction function extracts inventory data, etc. from any cut. Data analysis can be further promoted by using functions such as BI tools that cooperate with the outside for data extraction.

    Master management function

    Master management is a function that centrally manages information (master data) such as customers, employees, and products. Data management efficiency is further improved because data can be registered for inventory classification, storage space, business partners, system personnel, and so on.

     

    Benefits of introducing an inventory management system


    Introducing an IT system is effective in solving problems such as human error and variation in quality control. Let’s take a look at the benefits of introducing an inventory management system.

    Cost reduction is possible

    If the work becomes more efficient by introducing the system, it will be possible to work with a smaller number of people in a shorter time than before, and it will be possible to reduce labor costs and other costs.

    Visualization of inventory status

    If you can see the receipt / delivery data immediately, you will be able to instantly grasp the inventory status in real time, and you will be able to quickly place orders for inventories that are likely to be out of stock.

    Improvement of work efficiency

    Human error can be prevented by introducing an inventory management system, such as information can be obtained simply by scanning the barcode with a handy terminal. In addition, it will be possible to simplify the work, which will make the work more efficient. Furthermore, by utilizing handy terminals and IT, it is possible to perform a certain level of work without relying on experts or beginners, and it is possible to standardize work without depending on individual experience.

     

    Precautions when introducing an inventory management system


    Although an inventory management system is convenient, it does not always give good results once it is introduced. Then, what kind of points should be carefully introduced? This item introduces the points to note when introducing the system.

    Clarify the purpose of introduction

    Even if the system is introduced without understanding the current situation, the expected effect may not be obtained, and there may be cases where the site is confused and troubles occur, which has a negative effect.
    Before deploying the system, first understand the current problems so that the deployment will proceed smoothly.

    The balance between necessary expenses and issues is important

    The most important point when adopting an inventory management system is whether you can get results that are worth the cost. Please note that the larger the system, the more costs will be incurred. Also, analog management can save you money, but it can also be expensive. In order to introduce the system, it is necessary to consider the balance of cost-effectiveness.

    Consider introduction in consultation with the site

    If the system introduction is left to the vendor, it may be far from the actual operation. Therefore, it is important to consult with the site and discuss the problems and issues before introducing a system that suits the application.

    About the free version of the inventory management system

    There is a free version of the inventory management system, which you can use for trial purposes. However, in the case of the free version, not only is the functionality of the product inferior to the paid version, but there are also cases where security is inadequate, so it is necessary to take measures in-house. Also, even if it is free, there are cases where you have to prepare the tool for inputting yourself, which may take extra effort and cost, so you need to look at the total balance when using it.

     

    Key points when choosing an inventory management system


    What points should I be aware of when choosing an inventory management system? Here are some points to consider when choosing an inventory management system.

    Recommended is cloud management type

    There are two types of inventory management systems: cloud management type and non-cloud management type.
    Since the cloud type inventory management type does not require system development or infrastructure procurement, it can be introduced quickly at a lower cost than the non-cloud management type that requires in-house server management and development.

    Check compatible devices

    The inventory management system has some useful features, but it doesn’t make sense if the model doesn’t support your device. For example, if the terminal can use a browser, the inventory management system can be used in various crises, but some terminals cannot be used depending on the supported OS, so it is necessary to check before introducing.

    Presence or absence of consultation desk

    Since the inventory management system entrusts the company’s data to the outside, it is safe to have a contact point where you can consult with us immediately if you do not understand the operation when something happens. It is also important to check that the server is maintained daily. Cyber ​​attacks change hands every day and approach important data. It is a good idea to check in advance whether the server operating company that uses the inventory management system frequently publishes maintenance information.

    UMWELT is recommended for the introduction of an inventory management system!

    The inventory management system is a cloud-based system that does not cost money, and it is safe to have a free consultation desk. Therefore, I recommend her UMWELT of TRYETING, which is a no-code AI cloud.

    There are many scenes to play an active part

    UMWELT enables the construction and maintenance of the optimum system for the company by standardizing the data format that differs for each company. Since it is possible to build a system that suits the company, it is possible to introduce a system that suits the company, such as the scale of the business, the number of products handled, the purpose and usage. Therefore, it can be used in a wide range of fields such as demand forecasting, shift management, inventory management, material development, and DX. In addition, you can receive support from dedicated staff during the introduction and operation phases.

    Can be introduced at low cost

    UMWELT is a subscription service, so you can keep costs down at low cost. The usage fee of UMWELT is the lowest in the industry, and it is a fixed monthly fee, so you can use it with confidence in terms of cost. In addition, UMWELT has flexible plans according to the purpose, so you can use it without waste.

    Equipped with educated AI, no hassle

    UMWELT provides a wide range of functions required for AI introduction and construction. UMWELT has a number of algorithms. By freely combining these algorithms like Lego blocks, anyone can easily build and manage the AI ​​system they are looking for. For example, it is possible to build an inventory management system linked to demand forecasting using AI.

    UMWELT is also equipped with a function that simplifies the pre-processing of data, which accounts for 80% of the time when AI is introduced, and since it does not interfere with the existing system, PoC and this introduction will not fail. Since the AI ​​engine that has already been proven can be used, more accurate effects can be expected.

    Summary

    By systematizing inventory management, it can be useful for improving the efficiency of inventory management operations and maintaining proper inventory. We especially recommend a cloud-based system that can be started at low cost. If you want to systematize inventory management, why not consider UMWELT, which is provided by TRYING.

     

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  • What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    There are concerns about the decline of domestic agriculture due to an aging population and a lack of successors, and agritech which combines agriculture and technology, is attracting attention as a means to solve this problem.

    Agritech is being used around the world to successfully improve agricultural efficiency and increase production. In this article, we will introduce agritech and the initiatives of each company, so let’s deepen our understanding so that we can stay up to date with the times.

     

    What is “agritech” that combines agriculture and technology?

    Here, we will introduce what agritech is, which combines agriculture and technology, which is attracting attention.

    Differences with smart agriculture

    “Agritech” refers to technology that promotes IT in agriculture using ICT technologies such as AI, big data, and IoT , and is a coined word that combines agriculture (agriculture) and technology (technology). . Agritech is a term mainly used overseas; in Japan, it is synonymously referred to as high-tech agriculture or smart agriculture.

    Domestic market size

    The domestic agritech market size is expanding year by year, and according to the Fuji Keizai Group, the market size in 2018 was 69.8 billion yen, and is expected to exceed 100 billion yen in 2030.

    Since it is a relatively new market, there are few barriers to entry, and not only large companies but also start-up companies and venture companies are participating, so it can be said that it is a promising industry with a bright future.

    Reasons why agritech is attracting attention in Japan and social issues

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    One of the reasons why agritech is attracting attention in Japan is that Japan’s food self-sufficiency rate is low. Japan’s food self-sufficiency rate in 2020 was low at 37%, and it is clear that Japan relies on imports from overseas. As a result, there is no guarantee that we will be able to continue to secure a stable supply of food, as we are greatly affected by the situation and trade relations in importing countries.

    There are also challenges in the environment surrounding domestic agriculture. The aging of farmers and the lack of successors are also a problem, but if techniques are not passed on, there is a possibility that Japan’s agricultural technology will continue to decline. As a result, the introduction of agritech in Japan has begun little by little.

    Agritech’s main initiatives

    We will introduce the main initiatives related to agritech, which is attracting attention not only in Japan but also around the world.

    Spraying pesticides by drone

    By using small agricultural drones to spray pesticides from the sky, you can improve the efficiency of agricultural work. Previously, pesticides were manually sprayed using machines, but by operating a drone and automatically spraying pesticides, it is now possible to spread pesticides over a wide area in a short period of time. At the startup company BioC ar bon Engineering, one person operated six drones at the same time and successfully planted mangroves in Myanmar.

    Monitoring and management using IoT devices

    Using IoT devices, it is possible to monitor and manage livestock and crops.

    For example, by monitoring the daily behavior of livestock using AI cameras, it is possible to notice minute changes in physical condition and provide the necessary care in a timely manner. Similarly, for agricultural products, there is a function that automatically notifies you of the harvest time based on the growth status, and a function that links environmental information such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight hours with harvest results, and proposes the optimal growing method according to the situation. It can also be applied to other functions.

    Unified supply chain management using blockchain

    Through quality control using blockchain technology, we can centralize supply chain management and provide safe and secure agricultural products. Today’s supply chains are becoming more diverse and complex, and ensuring traceability to prove the safety of agricultural products is an issue.

    Therefore, blockchain technology used for crypto assets such as Bitcoin is attracting attention. In blockchain technology, each block is linked by a chain, making it difficult to tamper with the data, making it possible to prove the transparency of agricultural products.

    Big data analysis

    By performing big data analysis using AI, it is possible to quantify the invisible know-how of experts. This makes it possible to grasp the harvest timing based on the growth status of crops and to take appropriate measures against pests, which can be used to pass down techniques to successors.

    Advantages of introducing agritech

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    The introduction of agritech has the potential to transform agriculture, which until now had a strong analog image, into a high-tech industry, and to greatly improve the way people work. Here, we will introduce the benefits of introducing agritech.

    Improving agricultural efficiency and increasing production

    One of the benefits of introducing agritech is improving the efficiency of agricultural work and increasing production. The reason is that with the introduction of agritech, agricultural tasks that were previously done manually, such as sowing seeds, spraying pesticides, and harvesting, can be performed by drones and robots, making it possible to perform a wide range of tasks in a short period of time.

    Furthermore, by using the free time gained from this process to improve varieties, it has the potential to lead to the creation of new varieties.

    Facilitation of new entry through digitalization

    By introducing agritech and visualizing the know-how of experienced workers as data using AI, it is possible to create an environment that is easy for new entrants, such as young people who want to start farming, to enter the industry.

    The know-how of experts is often passed on orally or through actual experience, and there is no guarantee that the know-how will be accurately transmitted. Furthermore, as the population continues to age, it is unlikely that people will be able to continue working until they have inherited all of their skills, so it is important to reduce the barriers to new entry by converting know-how into data using AI. .

    Reduction of working hours and burden

    One of the reasons why the number of farmers is decreasing is that there is an established image that farming is difficult due to various factors such as physical strength and weather. Therefore, by using agritech to have drones and robots perform agricultural work on behalf of farmers, it is possible to reduce labor hours and reduce the burden. One of the appeals of this is that you can use the free time you get to work on a side job or use it on your days off, giving you freedom in how you work.

    Realizing new ways of working

    Agriculture has an established image of hard labor, long hours, no days off, and demanding farm work, but by introducing agritech, it is possible to realize new ways of working that have never existed before.

    Using IoT, it is possible to remotely monitor crops, and it is also possible to know the growth status of crops and the timing of harvest even when you are away from home. If this happens, you won’t have to visit the site every day.

    Disadvantages of introducing agritech

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    So far, we have introduced the benefits of introducing Agritech, but when considering implementing Agritech, it is important to understand the disadvantages as well.

    Initial cost is high

    One of the disadvantages is the high initial cost of installing drones, robots, and monitoring systems.

    However, if you take a long-term view, you can expect significant improvements in work efficiency and increased production, so considering it as an initial investment, it cannot be said to be a disadvantage. Please make a medium- to long-term plan and consider implementing it in order to receive these benefits.

    Difficulties in securing and training skilled human resources

    Agritech uses AI and IoT to improve agriculture, but users are also required to have knowledge and understanding of AI and IoT.

    The difficulty of securing and training human resources with skills related to these ICT technologies is an issue, and agricultural machinery manufacturers and ICT vendors are working to develop products that are easy to use even without special skills.

    Lack of compatibility with software, etc.

    Since agritech uses relatively new technology, there is a problem with poor compatibility of software between devices.

    Even if you try to link devices from different manufacturers, they may not be able to work together because the interface specifications for exchanging data are different. In the future, this problem may be resolved as standards are developed, but it will not be resolved overnight, and I think it will take some time.

     

    Companies and organizations that utilize domestic agritech

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    Here we will introduce companies and organizations that utilize agritech in Japan.

    Agricultural data sharing demonstration project implemented in Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture

    Niigata City is working to improve the efficiency of agricultural work and change the image of agriculture by using agritech.

    Implementing agritech has been a challenge, such as high initial costs and the need for special skills. For this reason, Niigata City is implementing an agricultural data sharing demonstration project. By sharing agricultural data among multiple farmers, we have succeeded in improving productivity and production volume through data-based management decisions.

    “Yanmar” utilizes in-house developed agricultural machinery

    Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. is developing its own agricultural robot called Agrobot. As of November 2022, this has not yet been realized, but our goal is to develop a robot that can automatically perform tasks tailored to the local environment.

    However, there are some robots that are already in practical use. A robot tractor is an agricultural robot that can automatically turn and work automatically by operating a tablet remotely. Agrobots aiming for complete automation may also become a reality in the near future.

    “Midori Cloud” provides field monitoring system

    Midori Cloud uses IT to measure and record the field environment and work, and converts it into data, making it possible to accumulate experience and share know-how by visualizing agricultural work.
    Farmers’ sense and experience are important in agriculture, which requires dealing with an uncertain environment. At Midori Cloud, by visualizing this using IT, we have been able to improve the efficiency of agricultural work and increase production.

    AGRI SMILE’s business goal is to pass on agriculture to the next generation

    With AGRI SMILE’s service, by centrally managing and evaluating cultivation data, you can utilize the feedback for your next cultivation. We are also developing a service that allows cultivation techniques to be shared as VR videos, making it possible to pass them on to the next generation.

     

    Companies and organizations that utilize overseas agritech

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    Agritech is attracting attention not only in Japan but also overseas. Here we will introduce companies and organizations that utilize agritech overseas.

    Growing tomatoes in seawater “Sundrop Farm (Australia)”

    South Australia has dry land that stretches all the way to the coast under harsh sunlight. Sundrop Farm was created by focusing on an environment where large quantities of seawater, which is unsuitable for agriculture, can be secured.

    By distilling seawater using solar energy collected using specular reflection, we succeeded in securing a large amount of fresh water. We use this fresh water to grow tomatoes.

    Agrobot (Spain) develops a harvesting robot

    Agrobot is a company based in Spain that develops “strawberry harvesting robots”. Using a sensor at the tip of the robot, it not only determines when to harvest strawberries based on their ripeness, but also automatically harvests the strawberries.

    In-house crop management and hydroponic cultivation “Plenty (USA)”

    Plenty is a company that specializes in hydroponic cultivation, and grows kale and lettuce in-house. By managing crop data and controlling the amount of water and minerals, it is possible to adjust the flavor. Another feature is that the amount of water required for cultivation is about 1/20 of that of regular outdoor cultivation, contributing to water conservation.

     

    The future of agritech

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    The future of agritech, which is expanding its market size, is bright as a savior for domestic agriculture, which is facing concerns about accelerating decline in agriculture due to the aging population and lack of successors.

    Efforts to utilize agritech are becoming more popular not only in Japan but also overseas, and it will not be long before we see fully automated robots doing farming in place of farmers. The industry is in a period of growth, so let’s keep an eye on future trends.

     

    Summary

    What is agritech, which is responsible for the future of agriculture? Explaining the background and merits of attention

    So far, we have introduced agritech. In Japan, it is often referred to as smart agriculture, and although it is a technology that is attracting a lot of attention around the world, I think that few people understand it accurately.
    Through this article, let’s deepen our understanding of agritech and pay attention to trends in agritech that are likely to attract more and more attention in the future.

     

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